Donald W. Leaf

Donald William Leaf, age 90, of Cambridge, Minnesota went to his heavenly home on January 27, 2025. He was born on February 11, 1934, at home in Grandy, Minnesota, to John and Hulda (Smith) Leaf.

Donald's early years were spent in Grandy, where he attended Common School District 58 before completing his schooling in Cambridge. He began his working life on the ore boat "Sam Purcell," traversing the Great Lakes, delivering iron ore from Minnesota's Mesabi Iron Range. He then joined his father at Larson and Leaf Construction as a heavy equipment operator.

In 1954, Donald was inducted into the United States Army, serving with the 45th Engineers Division in Germany. As a crane operator, he played a vital role in repairing the Autobahn Highway. Upon his return to the US in 1956, he married the love of his life, Verna Pearson, on October 27, 1956, at Cambridge Lutheran Church. They were blessed with three children.

Donald's career path led him to Federal Cartridge, Truck Crane, and eventually to Lindquist Construction. His strong work ethic and dedication led him to become a partner and ultimately, the owner in 1982. He passed the torch to his son, Mark, upon retiring in 1999, but his passion for the business kept him involved for a time afterward.

A devoted member of Cambridge Lutheran Church, Donald volunteered his time maintaining the church grounds after retirement. Known for his warm smile and outgoing personality, he cherished his "Coffee Chats" with friends at the Cambridge Bakery and was always ready with a kind word. He found joy in simple pleasures like Word Find puzzles, fishing for crappies on Lake Hamilton during his winters in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the thrill of deer hunting season.

Donald was a proud member of the American Legion, Braham VFW, and the Grandy Lions. Family was paramount to Donald, and he loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren unconditionally, considering them precious gifts from God.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents, John and Hulda Leaf; sister, Betty Engberg; brother, Dennis Leaf; and son-in-law, Dean Grell. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Verna; son, Mark (Rhonda) Leaf; daughters, Julie Grell, and Sharalyn "Sharry" Schusted and her significant other, Jeff Haugrud and son-in-law, Dave Schusted; grandchildren; Brittni Buller, Briana (Blake) Berg, Blair (Andrew) Hendel, Janelle Grell (fiance Jessey Werlein), Matthew (Molly) Grell, Blake Schusted, Ryan (Ashley) Schusted and twelve great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brothers, Darrell (PeeWee) Leaf and Duane (Dawn) Leaf; sisters, Mickey Sutherland, Verne (Dennis "Butch") Golden; Dee Dee (Michael) Lund; sister-in-law, Carol Leaf; brother-in-law Richard Woodland; and many other relatives and friends.

Donald's gentle spirit and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones.

Memorial Service 11AM, Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Cambridge Lutheran Church.  Visitation 5-7PM, Friday, February 7 at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home in Cambridge and one hour prior to the service at the church.  Military honors by Cambridge American Legion. 

Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers. 

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